An academic paper is usually written on a given subject in which the author uses primary or secondary data or both to validate his position. However, there are papers in which data is not collected, the author only focuses on the literature review and driving his argument home through the review of previous works. An academic paper usually contains but not limited to the following subheadings:

An Introduction

Statement of Problem

Objectives of the Study

Literature Review

Methodology

Model Specification – where it is necessary

Results and Discussion

Conclusion

Of course, this is just a template but not a universally acceptable template for writing an academic paper. It only contains basic subheadings that are usually found in an academic paper. A researcher or writer can design his or her paper as he or she likes. Thank you.